They return home for the first time in MLS since that 3-2 loss against the San Jose Earthquakes and need to start putting points on the board to keep up with the sides at the top of the Supporters’ Shield standings.

Houston have also slowed down after a bright start. They have not won since beating the Columbus Crew at home on opening weekend and have now drawn two on the bounce.

They managed to go away to the LA Galaxy and earn a point two weeks ago but last weekend’s 0-0 draw against the Colorado Rapids was a disappointing result and Owen Coyle will want more from his side.

They have only conceded two goals in four games so far but scoring has been a problem as they have netted just two as well.

Seattle won the only meeting between the two sides last year by a 2-0 scoreline at CenturyLink Field and have never lost at home to Houston.

Team News

Seattle could receive four major boosts as Osvaldo Alonso, Clint Dempsey, Obafemi Martins and Chad Marshall are all in line to return to action. Alonso has yet to make an appearance this season but should come in to Sigi Schmid’s team. Dempsey pulled out of the USA internationals with a hamstring problem and is a doubt, but could be ready to start come kickoff.

Houston should welcome back Raul Rodriguez and DaMarcus Beasley to the side after both have recovered from injury as Owen Coyle has a fully fit squad to choose from. Tyler Deric will continue in goal after impressing so far and could be kept busy if Martins and Dempsey are both fit to start.

Key Points

Seattle Sounders’ form: W/L/D

Houston Dynamo’s form:W/L/D/D

Key Stat: Seattle have not lost any of their six games against the Dynamo, scoring nine and conceding just two.

Key Player: Obafemi Martins – The Nigerian forward missed last week’s game at Dallas but is a key man for the Sounders. If he plays, he is more than likely to decide this game.

Score Prediction

Seattle Sounders 2-0 Houston Dynamo – The Sounders haven’t really got going this year but will be looking to get back to winning ways in front of their own fans, especially after losing to San Jose in their last home game. The Dynamo have struggled to find the net so far and might find it too difficult to break down the Sounders backline so long as Chad Marshall returns.